This is a beautiful book meant to be read during Holy Week counting down the days to Easter. It focuses a day at a time on an attribute of Christ likeThis is a beautiful book meant to be read during Holy Week counting down the days to Easter. It focuses a day at a time on an attribute of Christ like compassion, grace, hope, love, etc.. There are corresponding scriptures to ponder and two hymns each day. I love the historical information about the hymns or how they came to be written. When the book is complete there will be QR codes to listen to the music of the hymn. The book in the digital form I received is missing those codes but I could easily find songs through my music service. The music is helpful as I wasn’t familiar with many of the hymns. I was surprised that for a book focusing on the Savior there are no pictures or art showing Christ. I’m not sure if that is a cost factor or wanting the focus to be on the music. I could see families using this annually as a countdown to Easter Sunday....more
I was intrigued to read a children’s book about Saint Valentine. The story is told in rhyming form and follows Valentine as he lives his Christianity I was intrigued to read a children’s book about Saint Valentine. The story is told in rhyming form and follows Valentine as he lives his Christianity during the time Rome is ruled by Claudius. I learned some things about Valentine, the miracle he performs and the baptisms that followed. I knew he wrote letters from prison and according to legend that is where Valentine’s Day comes from. The rhyming doesn’t always flow smoothly. I can see this being used in a church library or school. But my public elementary school district rules would not allow me to purchase a book that is overtly religious and not biographical in nature. Thank you to Netgalley and InterVarsity Press, IVP Kids for the temporary ARC and I am leaving an honest review....more
Book Club December 2023 selection. Mitch Albom is asked by his beloved 82 year old rabbi to deliver his eulogy. Mitch decides to meet with him a few tBook Club December 2023 selection. Mitch Albom is asked by his beloved 82 year old rabbi to deliver his eulogy. Mitch decides to meet with him a few times to understand him better. This turns into over eight years of meetings when he is in his hometown. They discuss everything from death, hardships, faith, God, love, intermarriage, forgiveness and more. His rabbi is delightful with his love of bursting into song or sharing a funny quip. In contrast Mitch shares the story of a Detroit African-American pastor that Mitch meets through his foundation that gives aid to the homeless. He comes from a criminal and drug-filled past but now leads a small flock in a depressed area of Detroit.
Albom does not promote one faith or another but shares lessons he has learned from time spent with the two faith leaders. He embraces the idea of believing in something beyond this world. I enjoyed the story and the narrative. I thought this was going to be more of a self help book and I am glad it wasn’t. It is a book about basic spirituality. Believing in a higher power that will help you in good times and or in bad. This was a quick read at only 249 pages and I can’t wait to discuss it with my fellow book club members. ...more
(3.5 Stars) It has been a while since I have read a contemporary romance set in a religious environment. This is a college setting where there are bib(3.5 Stars) It has been a while since I have read a contemporary romance set in a religious environment. This is a college setting where there are bible study classes, attending church in the norm as is going to activities planned by the Young Christians Serve committee. While there is no denomination mentioned, if you live in Utah (as I do) and have a child who graduated from BYU (as I do), I could easily envision the fictional campus. With all that being said religion isn’t the focus and attending church is more a place to meet others of similar values. No one is party happy or has vices.
The story is told from the POV of Grace Ebert and Noah Jennings. And in a switch up the first half of the novel is from her view and the second half from his. Without giving away spoilers Noah is Grace’s math tutor. And since it is mentioned in the blurb they both are dealing with grief that impacts their fields of study and their dating lives. Grace and Noah are well developed characters and there is growth for both of them during the book. Occasional lines would knock me out of the story. The rant Grace throws at her best friend's crush about attraction being a gift not sin made me laugh so hard I stopped everyone in the room to hear it. (I don’t think that was the author's intent.) I did love the biking trip near Moab, Utah, having hiked there many times. This is a sweet and wholesome story with no big angst even though both MCs have felt grief. I especially think Christian romance readers will enjoy this.
Thank you to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for the ARC and I am leaving an honest review....more
(3.5 Stars) I’m not catholic but I have enjoyed learning about saints as I’ve visited cathedrals and traveled in different countries. This book covers(3.5 Stars) I’m not catholic but I have enjoyed learning about saints as I’ve visited cathedrals and traveled in different countries. This book covers over 150 saints. The first ones are the major ones you expect such as the apostles and family of Christ. The sections are loosely based on 500 year timelines. Early martyrs who take up for Christianity fill the next section. Then as the Catholic church spread, the next section had many of the people who founded monasteries and convents, along with other leaders. The sections continue to modern days with the first saints from the Americas, Mother Teresa and ending with St. John Paul II.
Each saint is shown in art or photo and their reason for sainthood. It may also include details of how they died or what they are the patron saint over. The blurbs are very brief. Of course this book is a bit Eurocentric but there are few non European saints included. I enjoyed the art photos and thought it was somewhat informative. This isn’t meant to be a comprehensive list of all saints. It didn’t include controversial saints like Columbus but did have Junipero Serra and mentions his abusive treatment of Native Americans in what became California. This would be a nice coffee table book for believers in saints or a nice check out from a library for someone who is interested in learning why different saints are revered. Thank you to Amber Books Ltd for the temporary digital book and I am leaving a voluntary review....more
Penina Kalish is 29 and is Orthodox Jewish. She enjoys her job working in a jewelry story. Because of health issue she is unable to have children whicPenina Kalish is 29 and is Orthodox Jewish. She enjoys her job working in a jewelry story. Because of health issue she is unable to have children which for her means matchmakers pair her up with less than ideal candidates. She is also overly empathic wanting to help people and solve their problems. When her sister is on the verge of losing her home Penina is willing to do anything to help, including entering into a marriage with a Gay Jew as his beard. But her bigger distraction is new boss Sam Kleinfeld. He is gorgeous, abrupt and although Jewish he isn’t Orthodox.
There is a lot to like in this debut novel. I enjoyed learning about the Jewish rules and customs that aren’t more universally known. I like Penina and that she lives her religion and finds joy in it. But also she can still read trashy romances and treats herself to nice lingerie. Much of the humor in the book comes from a few terrible dates Penina endures. I think her family, especially mom with her lack of boundaries is suppose to be funny, but I cringed more than laughed.
This is very much a slow burn romance. In keeping with the faith traditions there can’t be any touching or stolen kisses. You do get Penina’s longing and even lusting thoughts for Sam but don’t see it reciprocated. So it’s hard to see more than friendship as they talk about their families and lives. Of course you can see where it is going but it takes ages to get there. I was glad to see the epilogue and the beginning of the HEA.
Thank you to NetGalley and Alcove Press for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review. (3.5 Stars)...more
This is an historical fiction story about Edith Cavell. The setting is 1914 during WWI. Cavell is a nurse and the matron of the Berkendael Medical InsThis is an historical fiction story about Edith Cavell. The setting is 1914 during WWI. Cavell is a nurse and the matron of the Berkendael Medical Institute in Belgium. She trains nurses there and it operates under the flag of the Red Cross. The story begins as the German forces begin occupation of the country. She and her nurses are allowed to continue their nursing duties within the limits set by the Germans. They are supposed to act as jailers to non-Germans. She eventually begins to hide and treat allied soldiers, helping many escape to freedom at the Holland border.
The story is told form duel POVs, Edith and another nurse Lizzie. I felt the second view was there to show how Edith inspires and leads the nurses and to leave a witness of the events. I think the story is important and was glad to learn about this new to me heroine. But I didn’t connect as much to the writing style and pacing of the book. There are religious overtones in the story as Edith’s strong Christian beliefs guide her actions. For a war time book there are injuries but nothing is overly graphic.
Kudos for the beautiful cover. It is striking and invites the reader to the book. Thank you to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review. (3.5 Stars)...more
This cleverly title refers to three different covert operations happening in the novel. First, Navy Seals are on an intelligence gathering mission in This cleverly title refers to three different covert operations happening in the novel. First, Navy Seals are on an intelligence gathering mission in Honduras. Second, Senator James Whitmore is leading the polls in his run for President of the United States, but someone is targeting his potential cabinet members. Third, actress Sienna is trying to secretly marry Petty Officer Craig Simmons without blowing his identity as a Seal. Sienna and Craig first met and fell in love in Spotlight (Saint Squad #9) by the author.
This is the twelfth book in the Saint Squad series which the author began in 2008. The books are usually stories following an elite team of Navy Seals and often including a romance for one of the members. This adventure is a little different as the couple are already in love and are trying to quietly get married. The Senator and others around him are also part of this series and a connected series called Undercurrents. I’m a fan of the series and was happy to be back with the team. (I have lost tract a little of the pairings of spouses/team members to books.) I know I will get quick, page turning action from Abramson. Three storylines is almost too much for a shorter novel. A last minute election scandal gets resolved in an unrealistic quick timeframe.
As always these books are clean for language and intimacy. There is military action with the Seals but nothing graphic. Religion is a part of the Seals lives including praying, seeking inspiration and attending church. No specific denomination is mention. I absolutely loved be back with the Saint Squad and catching up with Craig and Sienna. Usually I’d say these books can be read as a stand alone but in this case if you want the romance beginnings I’d suggest pre-reading Spotlight. Thank you to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for the ARC in exchange for a review....more
A book for inspiration and encouragement. The author reminds us that Christ is on our side and we can lean on him. The suggestions are simple and meanA book for inspiration and encouragement. The author reminds us that Christ is on our side and we can lean on him. The suggestions are simple and meaningful; pray, read God’s word, listen to sacred music, worship and give service. It also has simple colorful illustrations. This is a short book. The description say it is 32 pages but on my device it is only 16. It is similar in format to the author’s book on grief published August 2022. Thank you to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for an early look with an ARC in exchange for an honest review....more
A second chance romance for Rebekah and Megan. They shared an intense summer relationship (no flashbacks) while Rebekah questioned her identity and faA second chance romance for Rebekah and Megan. They shared an intense summer relationship (no flashbacks) while Rebekah questioned her identity and faith and where she fits. There was a 12 year age gap too that was an obstacle for it being more serious. Rebekah left to finish college in Florida where she marries and has a daughter. She returns home to Athens, GA as a young widow with an 8 year old daughter Anna. Megan runs a counselor and runs and art therapy program that where Anna starts attending. For Rebekah and Megan it is as of the years separation didn’t happen. Rebekah is the daughter of a local Methodist preacher and her relationship with God is important. I thought this would fall into southern preacher stereotypes and kudos to the author for taking a different approach. The story becomes two pronged. The rekindled romance and becoming a new family. And the second story of an upcoming vote to accept or decline Gays fully into the church and ministry. Rebekah would like to be married by her father in the church of her faith. The couple uses their relationship to try and help with the vote. There is much discussion of God and purpose and plans. And I like that the couple aren’t in totally agreement but can support each other. I thought this was loving, sweet, and thoughtful. (4.5 stars)...more
I’m not Catholic but happily read A Gift of Joy and Hope by Pope Francis. This is compilation of thoughts drawn from talks and writings of the Pope. II’m not Catholic but happily read A Gift of Joy and Hope by Pope Francis. This is compilation of thoughts drawn from talks and writings of the Pope. It isn’t meant to be read straight through as a novel. Each message is only one to three paragraphs in length. They are all positive, wanting the reader to find inner peace, joy and hope. I would suggest reading a message as a daily devotional or meditation. Something to ponder during the day. A section contains written prayers from the Pope too. I enjoyed the ending interview with the Pope where he talks of his collaborating with Pope Benedict XVI and shared other personal thoughts. I laughed at his story where a woman told him if he ever becomes Pope to get a small dog as his food tester. Pope Francis is probably the most famous man I have seen in person. I was thrilled to stand in the square at the Vatican and hear him speak. As the spiritual leader to millions I can appreciate his desire for people to be happy and live good lives. Thank you to NetGalley and Worthy Publishing, Worthy Books for an ARC in exchange for a review....more
Bookclub selection May 2022. I really enjoyed this fictionalized story of Ana who becomes the wife to Jesus. Monk’s writing is beautiful and at times Bookclub selection May 2022. I really enjoyed this fictionalized story of Ana who becomes the wife to Jesus. Monk’s writing is beautiful and at times poetic as she tells Ana’s story. Raised is a wealthy family she is educated and loves to write. Her greatest desire or longing is to write her stories about women which often she has to do secretly. In her teens and at a marriageable age she meets Jesus and is drawn to him. They have both been rejected by the mainstream of their cities and she goes to make a life with him in Nazareth. The years as a young couple are sweet as Ana adjusts to a poorer and harder way of life. I love how the author weaves in experiences that will later become part of the parables Jesus tells.
My book club is women from my neighborhood the majority of which are religious and belong to a conservative church. No one had issues with the speculation that Jesus could have been married. The focus isn’t on his ministry and the story follows Ana while Jesus is out actively teaching. The writing is well researched and the author has wonderful notes in the back giving transparency to where she needs to make changes for the story flow. For example she only gives Jesus two brothers and one sister even though the Bibles says there are more. In a lot of ways the focus on women and traditions reminded me of the very impactful book, The Red Tent. (4.5 stars)...more
Moore does a lovely job of bringing a biblical story to life. The title character is Hannah and the story begins while she is trying to deal with not Moore does a lovely job of bringing a biblical story to life. The title character is Hannah and the story begins while she is trying to deal with not being able to have children. I’m glad the focus didn’t stay there for too long as infertility can be triggering for many people. Instead it moves on to the blessing in her life of her son Samuel. Because of the title of the book I was surprised that almost 70 percent is focused on Samuel. I love learning about the festivals that bring his family to the temple where he serves as a Priest. Also the ritual of repentance and how that works with offerings in the temple is discussed. And the love interest is sweet and plays out nicely. I like that when I read fictional stories based on the Bible that I can go to the source and see what the author adds to tell a full story. I’ve read other scriptural retellings by the author and I know she is one I can trust to be interesting, have good side characters and good pacing. If you enjoy religious fiction this is one I can recommend. Thank you to NetGalley, Covenant Communications and the author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review....more
The Prophet's Wife tells the story of the early and turbulent days of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Emma, as portrayed by Libbie GrThe Prophet's Wife tells the story of the early and turbulent days of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Emma, as portrayed by Libbie Grant, is trapped in marriage to the charismatic church founder. She comes to love the man who is her spouse and father of her children and works with him to grow his church. But she can also see Joseph's weaknesses. She endures estrangement from parents, poverty, loss of children and twice has to flee during the night to save her own life and the lives of her children. She is also seen as a leader for women and works tirelessly to help the poor and needy.
This book will provoke conversations. It is well researched historically and compelling to read. It is also historical fiction and the private interactions are created by the author. I appreciate Grant's listing the books she used as sources (some of which I've read). I also like her transparency in listing what she has changed for dramatic purposes for the story. Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow and Custom House for an eARC in exchange for an honest review....more
Beyond The Tides is the beginning of a new series set on the beautiful Prince Edward Island. The sea, bridges and docks are almost as much of a characBeyond The Tides is the beginning of a new series set on the beautiful Prince Edward Island. The sea, bridges and docks are almost as much of a character as are Meg and Oliver. Both MC's grow up on the island and Meg returns taking a job as a school teacher when there are issues with her mothers health. She has long held a grudge against Oliver for an incident in high school. Oliver is hard working and devoted to taking care of his mother and brother. Meg's dad announces his plans to sell his lobster business to Oliver. When Meg says she might want it he suggests they work together together and he will decide who deserves it.
This is a clean women's fiction novel. It is also good Christian fiction with talk of faith and higher purposes. There is also forgiving and healing along with changes for both characters. I felt the most for Meg as she works so hard to learn the lobster business and still find time to spend with her mother.
Slight spoiler below: (view spoiler)[One thing that made me not give five stars is I found it very annoying that Meg is manipulated so much. The main plot of the contest makes no sense to me. Meg gives up her career for this years lobster season. In the school district I work in if a teacher left after contracts are signed they would be forever barred from working in the entire district let alone the school. Also by setting up the contest she is manipulated out of time she can spend with her mother before she worsens. What was the dad's plan if there wasn't a romance? Did he really not need the money from selling the boat? Couldn't he have waited another year to sell and let Oliver be in charge of the boat for the season? There were so many plot holes about the contest it is amazing to me I only took off one star. (hide spoiler)]
I'm still glad to have read book and look forward to Eli's story which is introduced in a brief preview. Thank you to NetGalley and Revell for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review....more
This is a fluffy, light, contemporary retelling of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. I love the play and wish I liked the story more. It starts off welThis is a fluffy, light, contemporary retelling of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. I love the play and wish I liked the story more. It starts off well with Camille Kelly meeting up with Aiden Peterson. After some quick dating two weeks later they are engaged. And the wedding is going to be just as quick. Unfortunately Aiden forgot to mention that his six adult brothers live with him in their family home. Camille decides the best way to get the brothers out of the house is to set them up with her college roommates and friends.
It all sounds good but the pesky details derail the storytelling. First, it is very hard to have any real character development with so many dating couples. I expect some character development in a book that might be missing in a play. The most I could tell you about some of the brothers is these two are twins, this one plays music, that one is in the military etc. And the girls I know even less about. Second, the lack of communication with the two main characters is cringe worthy and very immature. After the Thanksgiving fiasco none of the men apologizes for what occurs. Just because the girls made the best of a bad situation or still like them isn't the same as the gambit worked. And third, don't get me started on wanting to discuss family planning with Camille.
I would categorize this as a religious romance. The christian religion isn't named but is easily identified. There is lots of discussion of prayer, church service missions etc. And then with those positives a very negative comment occurs at the wedding by a member of the religion. It felt awkward, especially when no one refutes or challenges it. This is a clean romance and would be appropriate for high schoolers, new adults and up. Thank you NetGalley and Covenant Communications for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review....more
This is a Hallmark Christmas story wrapped up as a Jewish Hanukkah romance. Rachel romance novelist that writes Christmas romances. She is also JewishThis is a Hallmark Christmas story wrapped up as a Jewish Hanukkah romance. Rachel romance novelist that writes Christmas romances. She is also Jewish and daughter of a prominent rabbi. Her last books sales haven't been as high and the publisher would like her to write something with her Jewish roots. Jacob comes to NYC to put on a giant extravaganza called the Matzah Ball Max. Jacob and Rachel haven't seen each other since they went to Jewish camp when they were twelve. Both felt the other broke their hearts. Rachel thinks attending the ball will inspire her to write her new book. Jacob isn't going to make it easy on her.
I'm not Jewish so I didn't understand every Hebrew word or know all the foods described. But I got enough to feel immersed with the characters in their culture. (Rachel is raised more observant that Jacob.) I appreciate learning more about ME/CFS and could relate Rachel's characters to others I know who have chronic illness.
I really love this book. All the misunderstandings and mistaken points of view. Jacob's bubbe and her story is a wonderful addition. I would like to have seen a few more conversations between the two MC's or some intimacy (kissing or more) to move it to a full five stars. But I would recommend this to anyone who would enjoy a clean and different holiday read. Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review....more
Piper Holland works for a tourist magazine in Phoenix. She meets Gabriel (Gabe) Orsini, an air force pilot at Luke Air Force Base. She is pitching forPiper Holland works for a tourist magazine in Phoenix. She meets Gabriel (Gabe) Orsini, an air force pilot at Luke Air Force Base. She is pitching for her work stories highlighting local heroes and Gabe would be perfect. They have just begun dating and he agrees to the article. The book follows her work on the articles and their dating. She has lost her parents and a brother in a car accident and has trust issues fearing people will leave her. Gabe is sweet, goofy, patient and kind.
Overall I enjoyed this wholesome, clean romance. I like that Piper is getting counseling for her issues and trying to connect to a previous best friend. She is also open about seeking help through prayer and attending church (no denomination is mentioned). But I did get tired of all the descriptions of her clothing and the food, food and food. One day after church, she eats pizza, makes P. B. & J. sandwiches for a hike and then returns home to make and eat enchiladas. And although it is a running joke and flirtation point, I've never seen pizza eaten more times for meals. On their first date Gabe has four different pizzas delivered. (3.5 stars rounding up)
Second in a series but I read easily as a stand alone. Thank you NetGalley and Covenant Communications for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review....more
Sweet, clean romance. Jen Flanders is a struggling artist/dog walker in NYC. On a down day while doing yoga she asks God for a sign that she continue Sweet, clean romance. Jen Flanders is a struggling artist/dog walker in NYC. On a down day while doing yoga she asks God for a sign that she continue to carry on and surprisingly she receives a text from GOD. GOD gives her a lead on a better job and and helps her out once she has it. She naively continues to text with GOD enjoying the contact. Gabreil Oliver Daly is a lawyer who doesn't love his job. His girlfriend of eight years is pushing for him to make partner as she has and according to their plan. But his last big assignment is legal but morally questionable. He has also agreed to mentor a younger sister of a friend and is reaching out to her via text.
The story is cute and when Jen meets Gabe there is strong attraction. Jen is kind and her faith positive attitude is heart warming. I have mixed feelings towards Gabe. His way to make a legal situation right is not legal and could get him disbarred. Also even though everyone agrees his girlfriend is terrible he still should man up to the fact they did have a plan together. And while he is honest when he breaks up with her, I think he owed her more than one conversation especially when she continues to send him gifts. Side characters like his parents come off almost as more interesting than the leads. And strangely Jen twice walks in on a naked people. I suppose it is for laughs but seems odd in an otherwise clean book.
Overall the story is good for a quick read. It is the second in a series and I enjoyed it enough to look for the next story to be published. Thank you NetGalley and Xpresso Book Tours for an ARC book in exchange for an honest review....more
When I picked up All That Really Matters I wasn't expecting such a wonderfully complex, Christian faith affirming, contemporary novel. Molly MackenzieWhen I picked up All That Really Matters I wasn't expecting such a wonderfully complex, Christian faith affirming, contemporary novel. Molly Mackenzie is a professional influencer. She is funny and authentic to her brand and works at cultivating her viewers. When her manager tells her she needs to support a good cause to increase her following she seeks a referral from her pastor brother. Silas Whittaker runs The Bridge Youth Home. It is a home for young adults who have aged out of the foster care system. It gives them a place to live while continuing school or trade training and also teaches them life skills to help them become independent adults. While Molly's original intentions aren't pure she quickly takes on the cause and becomes a mentor and tries to help Silas with his off the page goal. Of course there are obstacles, career choices and a manipulative boyfriend getting in the way. Molly must follow her heart and core values to get what she really wants.
Told from alternating POVs of Molly and Silas. Molly to me is the real star. She is the one that has to experience pain and change during the story. I like her positive energy. When she makes mistakes she owns them and makes her best efforts to learn and grow from them. Silas gets his own moments too with a back story relating to his brother. I also liked learning about influencing as a career but found it predictable that her career would be trivialized. I appreciated the author highlighting the needs of those coming out of the foster care system.
The content is totally clean but there is mention of drug use and violence. This is my first book by Nicole Deese and I will gladly read others by her. Thank you to NetGalley and Bethany Books for an ARC ebook in exchange for a honest review....more
